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Periodontitis: meaning, definitions and examples

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periodontitis

 

[ ˌpɛrɪəʊˈdɒn.taɪ.tɪs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

dental disease

Periodontitis is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and destroys the bone that supports your teeth. It can lead to tooth loss and other serious health issues if not treated. The condition is often a result of poor oral hygiene that encourages plaque to form on teeth, leading to inflammation of the surrounding gum tissue.

Synonyms

gum disease, gum infection, periodontal disease

Examples of usage

  • The dentist diagnosed her with periodontitis after a thorough examination.
  • Good oral hygiene can help prevent periodontitis and its complications.
  • He was referred to a specialist to treat his periodontitis.

Etymology

The term 'periodontitis' originates from the combination of Greek words 'peri' meaning 'around' and 'odons' meaning 'tooth'. The condition was identified as a pathological process affecting the supporting structures of the teeth over the years of dental research. The recognition of periodontitis as a serious dental issue has developed throughout the 20th century as awareness of oral health and its connections to overall health has increased. The condition can arise from various factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, and systemic diseases, making it a significant area of focus in dentistry.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,501, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.